Good Things From God

Good Things from God

Bible Reading: Genesis 32:1-12

We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.

There may be people whom we’ve hurt so badly that they hate us. There may be considerable risks involved in going back to face them. The pain may not be erased, even after many years. But as difficult as such a meeting might be, it may help in our healing process—if God is leading us to do it.

Jacob had so injured his brother Esau through his crafty schemes that Esau had vowed to kill him. Jacob ran away, fearing for his life. Twenty years later God told him to return home. So Jacob sent messengers ahead of him to see what kind of reception he could expect. “The messengers returned to Jacob and reported, ‘We met your brother, Esau, and he is already on his way to meet you—with an army of 400 men!’ Jacob was terrified at the news. . . . Then Jacob prayed, . . . ‘O LORD, please rescue me from the hand of my brother, Esau. I am afraid that he is coming to attack me. . . . But you promised me, “I will surely treat you kindly”’” (Genesis 32:6-7, 9-12).

We can learn from Jacob’s example in this situation. First, we must be certain that God is leading us. We can pray earnestly, remembering his previous provisions and trusting in his promises. Then, asking for protection, we must take steps toward reconciliation.

God’s call to make amends will lead us down a path toward good things.